www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2013/12/28/3106221/endangered-species-act-turns-40/
"Since then the ESA has been credited with saving a number of species from the brink of extinction, including the bald eagle, the American alligator, the grizzly bear and the prairie dog. The act has prevented the extinction of 99 percent of the more than 2,140 species it currently protects."
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Real Family Values: Flexible Work Arrangements and Work-Life Fit
www.americanprogress.org/issues/religion/report/2013/12/19/81336/flexible-work-arrangements-and-work-life-fit/
"By promoting flexible work arrangements without stigma and creating opportunities for workers to be more flexible within all levels of organizations, we promote greater equality within the workforce and the family. We strengthen the workforce and begin to clarify an understanding of it that represents the realities and challenges today’s families face—one that does not idealize decades-old family work structures. We must codify into law the steps that help create a more just workplace and ensure that all workers can ask for the flexibility they need to thrive as both employees and family members. By holding fast to these real family values, we can create more equitable and just families and, in turn, a more equitable and just nation."
"By promoting flexible work arrangements without stigma and creating opportunities for workers to be more flexible within all levels of organizations, we promote greater equality within the workforce and the family. We strengthen the workforce and begin to clarify an understanding of it that represents the realities and challenges today’s families face—one that does not idealize decades-old family work structures. We must codify into law the steps that help create a more just workplace and ensure that all workers can ask for the flexibility they need to thrive as both employees and family members. By holding fast to these real family values, we can create more equitable and just families and, in turn, a more equitable and just nation."
Republicans Are Betting on a Losing Strategy in 2014 | Common Dreams
Republicans Are Betting on a Losing Strategy in 2014 | Common Dreams
"The shutdown, the sequester, and now the cruel cancellation of unemployment benefits during Christmas hurts many of the same people the Republicans want to court."
"The shutdown, the sequester, and now the cruel cancellation of unemployment benefits during Christmas hurts many of the same people the Republicans want to court."
Why Republicans Don’t Believe In Evolution Anymore
www.thinkprogress.org/politics/2013/12/31/3108741/republicans-evolution-demographics/
"There are two keys to understanding what the Pew poll teaches us about Republicans. First, the drop in belief in evolution is among Republicans and, more or less, Republicans only. Acceptance of human evolution was basically the same among Democrats and independents in 2013 as it was in 2009. Second, the share of the total population that believes in evolution hasn’t changed at all. The drop in Republican belief doesn’t appear to be people changing their minds about evolution so much as people who already didn’t believe in evolution becoming Republicans.
Why might that be? The obvious explanation is the changing character of the Republican base."
"There are two keys to understanding what the Pew poll teaches us about Republicans. First, the drop in belief in evolution is among Republicans and, more or less, Republicans only. Acceptance of human evolution was basically the same among Democrats and independents in 2013 as it was in 2009. Second, the share of the total population that believes in evolution hasn’t changed at all. The drop in Republican belief doesn’t appear to be people changing their minds about evolution so much as people who already didn’t believe in evolution becoming Republicans.
Why might that be? The obvious explanation is the changing character of the Republican base."
The National Memo » The Democrats’ Not-So-Secret Weapon For 2014? Raising The Minimum Wage
The National Memo » The Democrats’ Not-So-Secret Weapon For 2014? Raising The Minimum Wage
"In March of this year, the House GOP unanimously voted against raising the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 an hour over three years."
"In March of this year, the House GOP unanimously voted against raising the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $10.10 an hour over three years."
The National Memo » Call It A Comeback: More Than 9 Million Americans Have Health Insurance Through Obamacare
The National Memo » Call It A Comeback: More Than 9 Million Americans Have Health Insurance Through Obamacare
"After two months of barely functioning, the federal online health care exchanges delivered, racking up 975,000 enrollments in the month of December. That brings the total number of people who have picked a plan through an exchange since October 1 to about two million. The administration reached about two-thirds of its goal of enrolling 3.3 million by the end of 2013 after being fully operational one-third of the time. And it turns out most of the enrollments came during the one-week extension the White House gave itself after the initial problems with the site became apparent.
Four million people have qualified for Medicaid, according to ACASignups.net. Another 3.1 million young adults are covered by their parents’ health insurance, thanks to a provision in the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
This means over nine million people have gained coverage through the ACA since it first became law."
"After two months of barely functioning, the federal online health care exchanges delivered, racking up 975,000 enrollments in the month of December. That brings the total number of people who have picked a plan through an exchange since October 1 to about two million. The administration reached about two-thirds of its goal of enrolling 3.3 million by the end of 2013 after being fully operational one-third of the time. And it turns out most of the enrollments came during the one-week extension the White House gave itself after the initial problems with the site became apparent.
Four million people have qualified for Medicaid, according to ACASignups.net. Another 3.1 million young adults are covered by their parents’ health insurance, thanks to a provision in the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
This means over nine million people have gained coverage through the ACA since it first became law."
The 8 Most Absurd Things the Right Wing Did This Year
www.alternet.org/8-most-absurd-things-right-wing-did-year
"From Megyn Kelly's freak out over Santa Claus to GOP efforts to kill Obamacare -- here's the worst of the worst."
"From Megyn Kelly's freak out over Santa Claus to GOP efforts to kill Obamacare -- here's the worst of the worst."
Sister Simone Campbell of Nuns on the Bus: My Hopes for 2014
Sister Simone Campbell of Nuns on the Bus: My Hopes for 2014
"We have a chance now to renew our social contract and to make sure that hardworking Americans earn enough to support their families."
"We have a chance now to renew our social contract and to make sure that hardworking Americans earn enough to support their families."
What The Hell Is Happening At Fukushima Reactor 3?
What The Hell Is Happening At Fukushima Reactor 3?
"We know that TEPCO has lied all along, and I don't think our own government is going to tell us even if something is going on (under the law, they have the authority to lie to us in order to prevent panic that would affect the food supply). So it's not unreasonable to assume that whatever's going on, it's usually a lot worse than what the Powers That Be will admit.
Because when corporate interests have become synonymous with those of a nation's government, the safety of the citizens is way down on the priority list."
"We know that TEPCO has lied all along, and I don't think our own government is going to tell us even if something is going on (under the law, they have the authority to lie to us in order to prevent panic that would affect the food supply). So it's not unreasonable to assume that whatever's going on, it's usually a lot worse than what the Powers That Be will admit.
Because when corporate interests have become synonymous with those of a nation's government, the safety of the citizens is way down on the priority list."
You Won't Believe Conservatives' Absurd Theories They Think Will Cure Poverty
www.alternet.org/economy/conservatives-and-povety
"But the very same study shows that America’s deregulated, capitalism-gone-wild economy has done far less to lift people out of poverty during that same period. The facts demonstrate clearly that government services have made the difference in people’s lives, while America’s economic policies have failed."
"But the very same study shows that America’s deregulated, capitalism-gone-wild economy has done far less to lift people out of poverty during that same period. The facts demonstrate clearly that government services have made the difference in people’s lives, while America’s economic policies have failed."
Monday, December 30, 2013
Sen. Bernie Sanders On 2014: Seize the Moment | Common Dreams
2014: Seize the Moment | Common Dreams
"In my view, the main cause of congressional dysfunction is an extreme right-wing Republican party whose main goal is to protect the wealthy and powerful. There is no tax break for the rich or large corporations that they don't like. There is no program which protects working families -- Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, food stamps, affordable housing, etc. -- that they don't want to cut."
"In my view, the main cause of congressional dysfunction is an extreme right-wing Republican party whose main goal is to protect the wealthy and powerful. There is no tax break for the rich or large corporations that they don't like. There is no program which protects working families -- Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, food stamps, affordable housing, etc. -- that they don't want to cut."
The Republican Autopsy Report Revisited: 5 Ways The GOP Got Worse In 2013 | Right Wing Watch
The Republican Autopsy Report Revisited: 5 Ways The GOP Got Worse In 2013 | Right Wing Watch
"After a devastating loss in 2012, Republicans claimed that they didn’t need to change themselves or their platform, but only cosmetic attributes such as their rhetoric and presentation. Other right-wing activists simply pretended that Republicans actually won the last election.
But if the actions taken this year by Republican leaders are any clue, it looks like Republicans either ignored or outright rejected even the superficial recommendations made in the GOP’s plan to revive the party"
"After a devastating loss in 2012, Republicans claimed that they didn’t need to change themselves or their platform, but only cosmetic attributes such as their rhetoric and presentation. Other right-wing activists simply pretended that Republicans actually won the last election.
But if the actions taken this year by Republican leaders are any clue, it looks like Republicans either ignored or outright rejected even the superficial recommendations made in the GOP’s plan to revive the party"
Other than college, what's the best way for women to get decent pay and benefits? Unions.
www.dailykos.com/story/2013/12/30/1261456/-Other-than-college-what-s-the-best-way-for-women-to-get-decent-pay-and-benefits-Unions
"Thanks to the massive corporate-and-Republican war on unions, the portion of women belonging to unions has fallen from 18 percent in 1983 to 11.8 percent in 2012. That's very bad news for women, considering the advantages they get from union membership."
"Thanks to the massive corporate-and-Republican war on unions, the portion of women belonging to unions has fallen from 18 percent in 1983 to 11.8 percent in 2012. That's very bad news for women, considering the advantages they get from union membership."
Elizabeth Warren: Every American Has the Right to Retire with Dignity—Why We Must Expand Social Security
www.alternet.org/economy/elizabeth-warren-its-right-every-american-retire-dignity-why-we-must-expand-social-security
"Social Security works; no one runs out of benefits and the guaranteed payments don't rise and fall with the stock market. Two-thirds of seniors rely on it for the majority of their income in retirement, and for 14 million seniors, this is the safety net that keeps them out of poverty. And yet, instead of taking on the retirement crisis, instead of strengthening Social Security, some in Washington are actually fighting to cut benefits."
"Social Security works; no one runs out of benefits and the guaranteed payments don't rise and fall with the stock market. Two-thirds of seniors rely on it for the majority of their income in retirement, and for 14 million seniors, this is the safety net that keeps them out of poverty. And yet, instead of taking on the retirement crisis, instead of strengthening Social Security, some in Washington are actually fighting to cut benefits."
Texas School Retaliated Against Student For ‘Public Lewdness’ After She Reported Rape
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2013/12/23/3100451/texas-school-retaliated-rape-victim/
"In 2010, a student in one Texas school district reported that she’d been raped. But instead of hearing out her claim, the school quickly dismissed her and, when police did not press charges, retaliated against her. Now, for the first time in three years, Rachel Bradshaw-Bean is telling the public about how she was treated “like a prisoner” for reporting a crime."
"In 2010, a student in one Texas school district reported that she’d been raped. But instead of hearing out her claim, the school quickly dismissed her and, when police did not press charges, retaliated against her. Now, for the first time in three years, Rachel Bradshaw-Bean is telling the public about how she was treated “like a prisoner” for reporting a crime."
Young Americans Can Buy Health Insurance For Under $100
www.genprogress.org/voices/2013/12/18/24221/young-americans-can-buy-health-insurance-for-under-100/
"In fact, almost 5 in 10 single, uninsured Millennials will be eligible for plans in the Marketplace that cost only $50 per month or less after tax credits."
"In fact, almost 5 in 10 single, uninsured Millennials will be eligible for plans in the Marketplace that cost only $50 per month or less after tax credits."
The 10 biggest GOP rebranding fails of 2013
The 10 biggest GOP rebranding fails of 2013
"In March of this year, just a few months after the party’s drubbing in the 2012 elections, the Republican National Committee released its much-anticipated “autopsy” report. The goal of the report was to explain the GOP’s 2012 failure and to recommend changes the party could make to improve its chances in the future. On both counts, the authors concluded, the answer was inclusiveness — or the lack thereof. If the GOP were to stay competitive on the national level, it would be necessary to change the way many voters (young and Latino ones, especially) saw the party. And in order to do that, the Republican Party would, as the authors put it, have to “stop talking to itself.” It was time to rebrand.
Nine months later, however, it’s hard to conclude that the GOP’s rebranding effort has been anything other than an abysmal failure."
"In March of this year, just a few months after the party’s drubbing in the 2012 elections, the Republican National Committee released its much-anticipated “autopsy” report. The goal of the report was to explain the GOP’s 2012 failure and to recommend changes the party could make to improve its chances in the future. On both counts, the authors concluded, the answer was inclusiveness — or the lack thereof. If the GOP were to stay competitive on the national level, it would be necessary to change the way many voters (young and Latino ones, especially) saw the party. And in order to do that, the Republican Party would, as the authors put it, have to “stop talking to itself.” It was time to rebrand.
Nine months later, however, it’s hard to conclude that the GOP’s rebranding effort has been anything other than an abysmal failure."
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Nearly One And A Half Million Workers Will Get A Raise On New Year’s Day
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2013/12/28/3105581/minimum-wage-raise-year/
"Come January 1, over 1.4 million people — 1,441,000 to be exact — will get a raise thanks to increasing minimum wages in 13 states, according to an analysis by the National Employment Law Project (NELP)."
"Come January 1, over 1.4 million people — 1,441,000 to be exact — will get a raise thanks to increasing minimum wages in 13 states, according to an analysis by the National Employment Law Project (NELP)."
Federal Obamacare Enrollments Soar Past One Million Mark Through Christmas Eve
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2013/12/29/3106501/obamacare-enrollments-soar-past-million-mark/
"Some states — including California, New York, and Washington — have reported enrollment spikes similar to the federal marketplace in the last month."
"Some states — including California, New York, and Washington — have reported enrollment spikes similar to the federal marketplace in the last month."
How Conservative Media Treated Women In 2013
www.mediamatters.org/research/2013/12/26/know-your-role-and-shut-your-mouth-how-conserva/197372
"The best of the worst of right-wing media's treatment of women in 2013."
"The best of the worst of right-wing media's treatment of women in 2013."
Living in a red state is hazardous to your health
www.dailykos.com/story/2013/12/26/1256778/-Living-in-a-red-state-is-hazardous-to-your-nbsp-health
"Of the 25 states above the national average, 19 are blue and just six are red. Of the 25 states below the national average, 17 are red and just eight are blue.
Environmental policies, access to health insurance, workplace safety regulations ... these things matter. They are literally a matter of life and death. And it's clear that conservatism is hazardous to your health."
"Of the 25 states above the national average, 19 are blue and just six are red. Of the 25 states below the national average, 17 are red and just eight are blue.
Environmental policies, access to health insurance, workplace safety regulations ... these things matter. They are literally a matter of life and death. And it's clear that conservatism is hazardous to your health."
What America Would Look Like If Libertarians Got Their Way
www.alternet.org/what-america-would-look-if-libertarians-got-their-way?paging=off¤t_page=1#bookmark
"A North America dotted with Third World colonies. And a blighted landscape where Others are subjugated to Owners."
"A North America dotted with Third World colonies. And a blighted landscape where Others are subjugated to Owners."
Ted Cruz Just Admits Outright that Blocking Immigration Reform in 2014 Is About Helping GOP
www.alternet.org/immigration/ted-cruz-just-admits-outright-blocking-immigration-reform-2014-about-helping-gop
"Cruz said he hopes that Speaker John Boehner will not take on immigration reform next year. Doing so, Cruz argued, would diminish the “incredible opportunity to retake the Senate in 2014.” Cruz emphasized that he is focused on winning the Senate majority from Democrats, and said passing immigration reform legislation would be the “number one thing Republicans could do to mess that up"."
"Cruz said he hopes that Speaker John Boehner will not take on immigration reform next year. Doing so, Cruz argued, would diminish the “incredible opportunity to retake the Senate in 2014.” Cruz emphasized that he is focused on winning the Senate majority from Democrats, and said passing immigration reform legislation would be the “number one thing Republicans could do to mess that up"."
Meet The Man Who Told The GOP How To Destroy America’s Middle Class
www.addictinginfo.org/2013/12/26/powell-memo-gop-blueprint/
"The Powell Memo came up with the plan, the blueprint. Based on the ideas presented in the Powell Memo, the Republican party created think tanks responsible for dispersing misleading information with a false cloak of authenticity. The Heritage Foundation is a classic example of this."
"The Powell Memo came up with the plan, the blueprint. Based on the ideas presented in the Powell Memo, the Republican party created think tanks responsible for dispersing misleading information with a false cloak of authenticity. The Heritage Foundation is a classic example of this."
Saturday, December 28, 2013
Robert Reich Takes on Ryan Adviser Who Claims Income Inequality is Not a Problem
Robert Reich Takes on Ryan Adviser Who Claims Income Inequality is Not a Problem
"Here we go again with another one of these Third Way flacks making their way onto our airways -- although this one has moved onto the Manhattan Institute and working as an economic adviser for Rep. Paul Ryan."
"Here we go again with another one of these Third Way flacks making their way onto our airways -- although this one has moved onto the Manhattan Institute and working as an economic adviser for Rep. Paul Ryan."
Friday, December 27, 2013
Inequality: An Essential Reader
Inequality: An Essential Reader
"How did we arrive at this new Gilded Age? And how might we create an economy of broadly shared prosperity?"
"How did we arrive at this new Gilded Age? And how might we create an economy of broadly shared prosperity?"
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Thank a Postal Worker This Holiday Season | Common Dreams
Thank a Postal Worker This Holiday Season | Common Dreams
"Postal workers are still under assault from political slackers in Washington—like House Oversight and Government Reform Committee chairman Darrell Issa, R-California, and the wrecking crew he has assembled to diminish the United States Postal Service to such an extent that it can be bartered off to the highest bidder."
"Postal workers are still under assault from political slackers in Washington—like House Oversight and Government Reform Committee chairman Darrell Issa, R-California, and the wrecking crew he has assembled to diminish the United States Postal Service to such an extent that it can be bartered off to the highest bidder."
Moral Monday Movement Set To Spread Across South
Moral Monday Movement Set To Spread Across South
"Moral Monday protests in North Carolina against a raft of recent legislation targeting voters and teachers will continue in 2014. Reporting by the AP suggests that the protests will spread across the South."
"Moral Monday protests in North Carolina against a raft of recent legislation targeting voters and teachers will continue in 2014. Reporting by the AP suggests that the protests will spread across the South."
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Conservatives' Quagmire: The War on Christmas | Common Dreams
Conservatives' Quagmire: The War on Christmas | Common Dreams
"The annual "war on Christmas" took an unexpected twist this holiday season, when the UK-based website the Freethinker published the ironic headline "First known casualty in America's 2013 'War on Xmas' turns out to be a Salvation Army member". A woman attacked a bell ringer in Phoenix, Arizona because she was angry at being wished a "Happy Holidays" instead of honoring Jesus' birth by saying "Merry Christmas"."
"The annual "war on Christmas" took an unexpected twist this holiday season, when the UK-based website the Freethinker published the ironic headline "First known casualty in America's 2013 'War on Xmas' turns out to be a Salvation Army member". A woman attacked a bell ringer in Phoenix, Arizona because she was angry at being wished a "Happy Holidays" instead of honoring Jesus' birth by saying "Merry Christmas"."
News Video Catches Black Santa Being Shot by pellet gun during D.C. toy giveaway
News Video Catches Black Santa Being Shot by pellet gun during D.C. toy giveaway
"Fox News host Megyn Kelly recently told children that the only real Santa Claus was white."
"Fox News host Megyn Kelly recently told children that the only real Santa Claus was white."
Cruelty, Corporations, Congress, and Christmas: Unhappy Holidays for the Poor & Unemployed | Common Dreams
Cruelty, Corporations, Congress, and Christmas: Unhappy Holidays for the Poor & Unemployed | Common Dreams
"It's the holiday season in the United States and members of Congress and corporate executives are home with their families.
Meanwhile, in a year that Congress decided to slash funds for the federal food stamp program while also refusing to extend unemployment benefits to millions of people still suffering from a financial crisis created by large banks and a corrupted government, working people and the nation's most vulnerable have been left to fend for themselves."
"It's the holiday season in the United States and members of Congress and corporate executives are home with their families.
Meanwhile, in a year that Congress decided to slash funds for the federal food stamp program while also refusing to extend unemployment benefits to millions of people still suffering from a financial crisis created by large banks and a corrupted government, working people and the nation's most vulnerable have been left to fend for themselves."
Monday, December 23, 2013
NC warns court about 'womanless' marriages to defend Gov. McCrory's ban on NAACP protests
NC warns court about 'womanless' marriages to defend Gov. McCrory's ban on NAACP protests
"A Superior Court judge in Raleigh on Monday gave the NAACP permission to rally at the State Capital building to protest the Republican-controlled legislature after Gov. Pat McCrory's (R) administration refused to approve a permit for the group."
"A Superior Court judge in Raleigh on Monday gave the NAACP permission to rally at the State Capital building to protest the Republican-controlled legislature after Gov. Pat McCrory's (R) administration refused to approve a permit for the group."
'Gaffe-ing All the Way': Corporate Gluttony This Holiday Season | Common Dreams
'Gaffe-ing All the Way': Corporate Gluttony This Holiday Season | Common Dreams
"At a time of year when we're inclined to show empathy for people less fortunate than ourselves, some of our top business leaders are notable for comments that show their disdain for struggling Americans. Their words may seem too outlandish to have been uttered, or inappropriately humorous, but all the speakers were serious."
"At a time of year when we're inclined to show empathy for people less fortunate than ourselves, some of our top business leaders are notable for comments that show their disdain for struggling Americans. Their words may seem too outlandish to have been uttered, or inappropriately humorous, but all the speakers were serious."
Sunday, December 22, 2013
WSJ Panel Celebrates 'Third Way' Attack on Elizabeth Warren
WSJ Panel Celebrates 'Third Way' Attack on Elizabeth Warren
"After they finished bashing Pope Francis for daring to speak up about income disparity and the need to take care of the poor, talking heads on Fox moved on attacking yet another of their favorite targets, Massachusetts Senator and progressive champion Elizabeth Warren."
"After they finished bashing Pope Francis for daring to speak up about income disparity and the need to take care of the poor, talking heads on Fox moved on attacking yet another of their favorite targets, Massachusetts Senator and progressive champion Elizabeth Warren."
Saturday, December 21, 2013
How to Mess Up a Perfectly Good Democracy as Seen From Down Under
How to Mess Up a Perfectly Good Democracy as Seen From Down Under
"Living underneath the real world, as we do in Oz, we tend to do things back to front. For example, for us, voting is a tedious duty - but up there in the Greatest Democracy in the World, voters are exercising a privilege. That's why so many people in the United States have to struggle to get registered as voters, and their right to vote can be canceled at the stroke of a judge's gavel or a bureaucrat's whim. In fact, the right to vote was so restricted in some US states that the federal government had to step in and enforce fair voter-registration laws. Unfortunately, as you will know, the Voting Rights Act was recently emasculated by the Supreme Court which, on somewhat underwhelming grounds, decided that the discrimination that led to the original act had been overcome and so the act could be weakened. This has been greeted with hoots of delight in many states, which have immediately reintroduced the sorts of restrictions that brought about the VRA in the first place."
"Living underneath the real world, as we do in Oz, we tend to do things back to front. For example, for us, voting is a tedious duty - but up there in the Greatest Democracy in the World, voters are exercising a privilege. That's why so many people in the United States have to struggle to get registered as voters, and their right to vote can be canceled at the stroke of a judge's gavel or a bureaucrat's whim. In fact, the right to vote was so restricted in some US states that the federal government had to step in and enforce fair voter-registration laws. Unfortunately, as you will know, the Voting Rights Act was recently emasculated by the Supreme Court which, on somewhat underwhelming grounds, decided that the discrimination that led to the original act had been overcome and so the act could be weakened. This has been greeted with hoots of delight in many states, which have immediately reintroduced the sorts of restrictions that brought about the VRA in the first place."
Friday, December 20, 2013
National Paid Family Leave May Finally Be on the Horizon | Common Dreams
National Paid Family Leave May Finally Be on the Horizon | Common Dreams
"Any working parent will tell you that raising a family might as well be another full-time job—one that comes with no vacation days or health benefits. But millions of Americans don't get days off from their regular job, either, even for the sake of their health or their family’s."
"Any working parent will tell you that raising a family might as well be another full-time job—one that comes with no vacation days or health benefits. But millions of Americans don't get days off from their regular job, either, even for the sake of their health or their family’s."
Thursday, December 19, 2013
Raising the Federal Minimum Wage to $10.10 Would Lift Wages for Millions and Provide a Modest Economic Boost | Economic Policy Institute
Raising the Federal Minimum Wage to $10.10 Would Lift Wages for Millions and Provide a Modest Economic Boost | Economic Policy Institute
"Every year that the minimum wage remains the same in nominal dollars, inflation slowly erodes its real (i.e., inflation-adjusted) value, leaving minimum-wage workers with a paycheck that cannot buy as much as it did in years past."
"Every year that the minimum wage remains the same in nominal dollars, inflation slowly erodes its real (i.e., inflation-adjusted) value, leaving minimum-wage workers with a paycheck that cannot buy as much as it did in years past."
The Progressive Honor Roll of 2013 | The Nation
The Progressive Honor Roll of 2013 | The Nation
"This past year was about a lot more than Ted Cruz and the surreal shutdown politics of the Republican right. Across America, grassroots groups, bold unions, inspired activists, crusading editors and courageous elected officials did great things. They are the real heroes of 2013, and The Nation’s Progressive Honor Roll celebrates them for their accomplishments this year and their determination to do even more in 2014."
"This past year was about a lot more than Ted Cruz and the surreal shutdown politics of the Republican right. Across America, grassroots groups, bold unions, inspired activists, crusading editors and courageous elected officials did great things. They are the real heroes of 2013, and The Nation’s Progressive Honor Roll celebrates them for their accomplishments this year and their determination to do even more in 2014."
PERRspectives: GOP Releases Government, Takes U.S. Economy Hostage Again
PERRspectives: GOP Releases Government, Takes U.S. Economy Hostage Again
"That was quick. Just two days after he joined House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) in lashing out against right-wing extremists who threatened to trigger another government shutdown by blocking his compromise budget, Rep. Paul Ryan on Sunday promised to support the Tea Party's other favorite act of national economic blackmail. Despite the fact that both Ryan and Boehner have admitted "we have no immediate debt crisis" and that "you can't not raise the debt limit" because that "would be a financial disaster, not only for our country but for the worldwide economy," Ryan on Sunday threatened to do just that."
"That was quick. Just two days after he joined House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) in lashing out against right-wing extremists who threatened to trigger another government shutdown by blocking his compromise budget, Rep. Paul Ryan on Sunday promised to support the Tea Party's other favorite act of national economic blackmail. Despite the fact that both Ryan and Boehner have admitted "we have no immediate debt crisis" and that "you can't not raise the debt limit" because that "would be a financial disaster, not only for our country but for the worldwide economy," Ryan on Sunday threatened to do just that."
Is Your Chicken Dinner Making You Sick? | Common Dreams
Is Your Chicken Dinner Making You Sick? | Common Dreams
"Two new reports may have consumers thinking twice about having chicken for dinner."
"Two new reports may have consumers thinking twice about having chicken for dinner."
Breach at Target stores may have hit 40 mn accounts
Breach at Target stores may have hit 40 mn accounts
"US retail giant Target said Thursday some 40 million customers may have had bank card data compromised by hackers who broke into its database as holiday shopping got underway."
"US retail giant Target said Thursday some 40 million customers may have had bank card data compromised by hackers who broke into its database as holiday shopping got underway."
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Why Are Republicans Socking It to the Unemployed?
Why Are Republicans Socking It to the Unemployed?
"Paul and his colleagues think that by cutting off unemployment insurance to millions of Americans, they’re actually motivating them to get jobs.
And that’s fine if there are jobs to get. But there aren’t.
As of November, there were 10.9 million unemployed Americans. Yet, employers only added 203,000 jobs last month.
While those new jobs might help the economy, they’re obviously not enough to put all unemployed Americans back to work.
But Republicans don’t get that."
"Paul and his colleagues think that by cutting off unemployment insurance to millions of Americans, they’re actually motivating them to get jobs.
And that’s fine if there are jobs to get. But there aren’t.
As of November, there were 10.9 million unemployed Americans. Yet, employers only added 203,000 jobs last month.
While those new jobs might help the economy, they’re obviously not enough to put all unemployed Americans back to work.
But Republicans don’t get that."
Republican To Concede In VA Attorney General Race
Republican To Concede In VA Attorney General Race
"Obenshain's concession means all statewide offices in Virginia will be held by Democrats, a welcome change from the administration of Bob McDonnell and Ken Cuccinelli."
"Obenshain's concession means all statewide offices in Virginia will be held by Democrats, a welcome change from the administration of Bob McDonnell and Ken Cuccinelli."
Sen. Warren Aims to Fix 'One More Way the System Is Rigged' | Common Dreams
Sen. Warren Aims to Fix 'One More Way the System Is Rigged' | Common Dreams
"Legislation introduced by Warren would prohibit employers from using prospective employees' credit scores as a basis for hiring"
"Legislation introduced by Warren would prohibit employers from using prospective employees' credit scores as a basis for hiring"
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
Pope Sacks Conservative Cardinal
Pope Sacks Conservative Cardinal
"The removal of Cardinal Raymond L. Burke from the Congregation for Bishops is being seen as a move that means Francis is willing to go beyond just a change in rhetoric to make the church more inclusive."
"The removal of Cardinal Raymond L. Burke from the Congregation for Bishops is being seen as a move that means Francis is willing to go beyond just a change in rhetoric to make the church more inclusive."
Goodies for the Rich, Pennies for the Poor
Goodies for the Rich, Pennies for the Poor
"Republicans don't give a rat's ass about working-class Americans, but they want you to think they do."
"Republicans don't give a rat's ass about working-class Americans, but they want you to think they do."
Senate GOP Meeting Tuesday to Figure Out How to Block More Nominees | Alternet
Senate GOP Meeting Tuesday to Figure Out How to Block More Nominees | Alternet
"Senate Republicans aren't sure yet how they're going to try to continue to block President Obama's nominees, now that they can't filibuster them on the floor. But what they do know is that they want to keep blocking the nominations."
"Senate Republicans aren't sure yet how they're going to try to continue to block President Obama's nominees, now that they can't filibuster them on the floor. But what they do know is that they want to keep blocking the nominations."
The Six Worst Attacks On Reproductive Freedom In 2013 | Alternet
The Six Worst Attacks On Reproductive Freedom In 2013 | Alternet
"GOP lawmakers certainly failed our women this year"
"GOP lawmakers certainly failed our women this year"
Sunday, December 15, 2013
Why Shopping at Walmart Is No Bargain | Alternet
Why Shopping at Walmart Is No Bargain | Alternet
"So that last great argument about Walmart being more affordable is dead in the water. Could a caring, sensible person continue to shop there, knowing all that we now know?"
"So that last great argument about Walmart being more affordable is dead in the water. Could a caring, sensible person continue to shop there, knowing all that we now know?"
When Will the Media Learn? Conservatives Are NOT “Centrists”! | Alternet
When Will the Media Learn? Conservatives Are NOT “Centrists”! | Alternet
"From Chris Christie to Third Way, the political class mislabels the political center. Here's why it's so dangerous."
"From Chris Christie to Third Way, the political class mislabels the political center. Here's why it's so dangerous."
10 Certifiably Insane Rants from the Right-Wing Fringe This Week: War on Santa Edition | Alternet
10 Certifiably Insane Rants from the Right-Wing Fringe This Week: War on Santa Edition | Alternet
"Megyn Kelly, Donald Trump and Pat Robertson vie for the craziest prize."
"Megyn Kelly, Donald Trump and Pat Robertson vie for the craziest prize."
Friday, December 13, 2013
Thursday, December 12, 2013
As It Turns Out, There Still Is a Vast Right Wing Conspiracy - The Many Friends of ALEC
As It Turns Out, There Still Is a Vast Right Wing Conspiracy - The Many Friends of ALEC
"Meanwhile, newly revealed documents show that legislators who co-chair ALEC committees must sign a State Chair Job Description and Agreement. Among other things, state legislator chairs agree to "act with care and loyalty and put the interests of the organization [ALEC] first." Another provision says: "Legislators must inform ALEC of any public records / FOIA requests that include ALEC documents"."
"Meanwhile, newly revealed documents show that legislators who co-chair ALEC committees must sign a State Chair Job Description and Agreement. Among other things, state legislator chairs agree to "act with care and loyalty and put the interests of the organization [ALEC] first." Another provision says: "Legislators must inform ALEC of any public records / FOIA requests that include ALEC documents"."
Teen DUI Killer Gets Off After Defense Claims 'Affluenza'
Teen DUI Killer Gets Off After Defense Claims 'Affluenza'
"A Texas teenager who killed four in a drunken driving accident was sentenced to probation after defense lawyers argued his wealthy parents never taught him right from wrong."
"A Texas teenager who killed four in a drunken driving accident was sentenced to probation after defense lawyers argued his wealthy parents never taught him right from wrong."
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Raising the Minimum Wage Would Boost the Incomes of Millions of Women and Their Families
www.americanprogressaction.org/issues/labor/news/2013/12/09/80484/raising-the-minimum-wage-would-boost-the-incomes-of-millions-of-women-and-their-families/
"It is time for Congress to recognize the increasingly important role working women play in our economy and ensure that all women are fairly compensated for their work. Increasing the minimum wage to $10.10 per hour is an important first step—one that would help provide economic security to millions of hardworking Americans and their families."
"It is time for Congress to recognize the increasingly important role working women play in our economy and ensure that all women are fairly compensated for their work. Increasing the minimum wage to $10.10 per hour is an important first step—one that would help provide economic security to millions of hardworking Americans and their families."
Republican nightmare begins: Obamacare is 'a godsend' for people getting coverage
www.dailykos.com/story/2013/12/09/1256519/-Republican-nightmare-begins-Obamacare-is-a-godsend-for-people-getting-coverage
"That's precisely what Republicans have been fighting against so desperately for the past four years; people's lives being made fundamentally better. People realizing that government can be a direct force for good in their personal lives. It's every Republican's nightmare, and it's going to play out in every state until next November."
"That's precisely what Republicans have been fighting against so desperately for the past four years; people's lives being made fundamentally better. People realizing that government can be a direct force for good in their personal lives. It's every Republican's nightmare, and it's going to play out in every state until next November."
Monday, December 9, 2013
Put the "United" Back in the United States of America
Put the "United" Back in the United States of America
"Every time a state strikes a corporate welfare "megadeal," the American taxpayer is left to pay the price."
"Every time a state strikes a corporate welfare "megadeal," the American taxpayer is left to pay the price."
The Bankruptcy and Privatization of Detroit Is a Terrifying Preview of What Republicans Want to Do to the Rest of the Country | Alternet
The Bankruptcy and Privatization of Detroit Is a Terrifying Preview of What Republicans Want to Do to the Rest of the Country | Alternet
"The privatization of Detroit is about to begin, and there’s no way the billionaire class is going to miss it."
"The privatization of Detroit is about to begin, and there’s no way the billionaire class is going to miss it."
Saturday, December 7, 2013
PERRspectives: Red States Face Triple Whammy from GOP Medicaid Rejection
PERRspectives: Red States Face Triple Whammy from GOP Medicaid Rejection
"In Ohio, Governor John Kasich's decision to take Washington's money will actually produce a $400 million surplus for the Buckeye State (one which Republican legislators want to give away in the form of more tax cuts). The simple math-and simpler consideration in insuring millions of indigent patients as the DSH funding is reduced over time is precisely why hospital associations in Texas, Kentucky, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina and every other state pleaded with Republican governors and legislatures to take Obamacare's money for Medicaid expansion."
"In Ohio, Governor John Kasich's decision to take Washington's money will actually produce a $400 million surplus for the Buckeye State (one which Republican legislators want to give away in the form of more tax cuts). The simple math-and simpler consideration in insuring millions of indigent patients as the DSH funding is reduced over time is precisely why hospital associations in Texas, Kentucky, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina and every other state pleaded with Republican governors and legislatures to take Obamacare's money for Medicaid expansion."
Latest Phony Obamacare ‘Horror Story’ Destroyed By Chris Hayes
www.addictinginfo.org/2013/12/05/cornelius-kelly-fox-obamacare-baby/
"The Capital New York story brings up two points that the Fox News coverage managed to leave out. First, they point out that Cornelius Kelly’s original application only listed three of his four children. The second gap in the Fox coverage may be the most important: Cornelius Kelly is a failed Conservative Party candidate for the Suffolk County legislature. So he’s not exactly the unbiased American citizen that Fox News wants you to think he is."
"The Capital New York story brings up two points that the Fox News coverage managed to leave out. First, they point out that Cornelius Kelly’s original application only listed three of his four children. The second gap in the Fox coverage may be the most important: Cornelius Kelly is a failed Conservative Party candidate for the Suffolk County legislature. So he’s not exactly the unbiased American citizen that Fox News wants you to think he is."
Secretive Right-Wing Group Continues Its War On Clean Energy
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2013/12/05/3022271/alec-solar-clean-energy-freeriders/
"The next day, the paper explained how ALEC “is mobilizing to penalize homeowners who install their own solar panels — casting them as “freeriders” — in a sweeping new offensive against renewable energy”."
"The next day, the paper explained how ALEC “is mobilizing to penalize homeowners who install their own solar panels — casting them as “freeriders” — in a sweeping new offensive against renewable energy”."
Rick Santorum Compares Obamacare To Apartheid, Himself To Nelson Mandela (VIDEO)
www.addictinginfo.org/2013/12/06/santorum-obamacare-mandela-apartheid/
"They are so obsessed with destroying the signature legislative achievement of America’s first African-American President, that they are willing to say and do anything to topple it. To date, Republicans have compared Obamacare to Hitler, Stalin, Nazism, communism, slavery, the 9/11 attacks, Hurricane Katrina, and the Holocaust, just to name a few. And now, Rick Santorum has added apartheid to the big list. Republicans oppose Americans having health care so much that they are literally picking any terrible thing throughout history to compare it to in an effort to scare people from supporting it. That’s a true injustice that Nelson Mandela would be disgusted by and so should most Americans."
"They are so obsessed with destroying the signature legislative achievement of America’s first African-American President, that they are willing to say and do anything to topple it. To date, Republicans have compared Obamacare to Hitler, Stalin, Nazism, communism, slavery, the 9/11 attacks, Hurricane Katrina, and the Holocaust, just to name a few. And now, Rick Santorum has added apartheid to the big list. Republicans oppose Americans having health care so much that they are literally picking any terrible thing throughout history to compare it to in an effort to scare people from supporting it. That’s a true injustice that Nelson Mandela would be disgusted by and so should most Americans."
The Right Wing’s Campaign To Discredit And Undermine Mandela, In One Timeline
www.thinkprogress.org/home/2013/12/06/3029871/wing-timeline-mandela/
"After President Jimmy Carter imposed sanctions on South Africa Reagan reversed course, labeling the African National Congress a terrorist organization."
"After President Jimmy Carter imposed sanctions on South Africa Reagan reversed course, labeling the African National Congress a terrorist organization."
Remembering The Religious Right's Attacks On Nelson Mandela | Right Wing Watch
Remembering The Religious Right's Attacks On Nelson Mandela | Right Wing Watch
"Mandela faced criticism from Republican leaders including Dick Cheney, who described Mandela’s ANC as a “terrorist organization,” and Jesse Helms, who “turned his back during Mandela’s visit to the U.S. Capitol.” Even in 1998, Eagle Forum founder Phyllis Schlafly lumped Mandela together with notorious dictators.
The late Jerry Falwell urged [PDF] his supporters to write their congressmen and senators to tell them to oppose sanctions against the apartheid regime."
"Mandela faced criticism from Republican leaders including Dick Cheney, who described Mandela’s ANC as a “terrorist organization,” and Jesse Helms, who “turned his back during Mandela’s visit to the U.S. Capitol.” Even in 1998, Eagle Forum founder Phyllis Schlafly lumped Mandela together with notorious dictators.
The late Jerry Falwell urged [PDF] his supporters to write their congressmen and senators to tell them to oppose sanctions against the apartheid regime."
Rick Santorum Compares Obamacare To Apartheid
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2013/12/06/3030141/rick-santorum-obamacare-mandela/
"Comparing apartheid — the systematic, institutionalized segregation of the black population of South Africa — to Obamacare — the signature legislative achievement of the United States’ first black president — is among the worst reactions by conservatives to the news of Mandela’s passing. And implying that Mandela would have opposed legislation like the Affordable Care Act is to ignore the reality of the health care system that Mandela himself fought for.
After bringing an end to apartheid rule, Mandela enshrined in the new South African constitution a fundamental right to health care for all citizens, and introduced a government-funded public health care system to help cover those who could not afford the private system already in place."
"Comparing apartheid — the systematic, institutionalized segregation of the black population of South Africa — to Obamacare — the signature legislative achievement of the United States’ first black president — is among the worst reactions by conservatives to the news of Mandela’s passing. And implying that Mandela would have opposed legislation like the Affordable Care Act is to ignore the reality of the health care system that Mandela himself fought for.
After bringing an end to apartheid rule, Mandela enshrined in the new South African constitution a fundamental right to health care for all citizens, and introduced a government-funded public health care system to help cover those who could not afford the private system already in place."
Eric Cantor Calls the Police on Children Who Were Singing In His Office
www.politicususa.com/2013/12/05/eric-cantor-calls-police-children-singing-office.html
"Majority Leader Eric Cantor’s staff called the police on a group of children who were singing songs in support of immigration reform, and had them removed from their office."
"Majority Leader Eric Cantor’s staff called the police on a group of children who were singing songs in support of immigration reform, and had them removed from their office."
Republicans feel a need to train their men to talk to women
www.dailykos.com/story/2013/12/05/1260319/-Republicans-feel-a-need-to-train-their-men-to-talk-to-women
"Republican incumbents facing challenges from Democratic women are being given lessons in messaging against women ... er, messaging against women opponents. The problem is that they're already too good at messaging against women, so now they need to learn to cover up some of the condescension and pretend their policies won't hurt, yes, women."
"Republican incumbents facing challenges from Democratic women are being given lessons in messaging against women ... er, messaging against women opponents. The problem is that they're already too good at messaging against women, so now they need to learn to cover up some of the condescension and pretend their policies won't hurt, yes, women."
Friday, December 6, 2013
Here's ALEC's Plan To Bring Right Wing Policies To States Near You
Here's ALEC's Plan To Bring Right Wing Policies To States Near You
"The documents not only show these organizations' plans for how to serve their oligarchs at the expense of ordinary people, they also reveal a player most people don't hear much about: Searle Freedom Trust. Searle Freedom Trust is closely tied to Donor's Trust, the donor-advised slush fund for conservative causes."
"The documents not only show these organizations' plans for how to serve their oligarchs at the expense of ordinary people, they also reveal a player most people don't hear much about: Searle Freedom Trust. Searle Freedom Trust is closely tied to Donor's Trust, the donor-advised slush fund for conservative causes."
How the Christian Right Plays Victim While Imposing Its Ideology on America | Alternet
How the Christian Right Plays Victim While Imposing Its Ideology on America | Alternet
"Why does every religious-right publication and event echo the claim that right-wing Christians are somehow being stripped of the very right to religious freedom the right has worked tirelessly to take from everyone else for decades?
The simple answer is they’re lying. Claiming the mantle of victimhood is so politically potent that religious-right leaders are going to do it, no matter how untrue it is, because, to be blunt, they’re not held back by any moral interest in honesty. Getting Grandma to think she's going to lose her church is a great way to get her to sign her Social Security check over to your organization."
"Why does every religious-right publication and event echo the claim that right-wing Christians are somehow being stripped of the very right to religious freedom the right has worked tirelessly to take from everyone else for decades?
The simple answer is they’re lying. Claiming the mantle of victimhood is so politically potent that religious-right leaders are going to do it, no matter how untrue it is, because, to be blunt, they’re not held back by any moral interest in honesty. Getting Grandma to think she's going to lose her church is a great way to get her to sign her Social Security check over to your organization."
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Army of Rightwing Groups Plan Assault on State Laws in 2014 | Common Dreams
Army of Rightwing Groups Plan Assault on State Laws in 2014 | Common Dreams
"The documents also cast light on the nexus of funding arrangements behind radical rightwing campaigns. The State Policy Network (SPN) has members in each of the 50 states and an annual warchest of $83m drawn from major corporate donors that include the energy tycoons the Koch brothers, the tobacco company Philip Morris, food giant Kraft and the multinational drugs company GlaxoSmithKline."
"The documents also cast light on the nexus of funding arrangements behind radical rightwing campaigns. The State Policy Network (SPN) has members in each of the 50 states and an annual warchest of $83m drawn from major corporate donors that include the energy tycoons the Koch brothers, the tobacco company Philip Morris, food giant Kraft and the multinational drugs company GlaxoSmithKline."
Rep. Chaffetz Makes Excuses for Refusal to Raise Minimum Wage
Rep. Chaffetz Makes Excuses for Refusal to Raise Minimum Wage
"Never mind that the minimum wage would be $22.62 per hour today if it had grown at the same rate as the earnings of the one percent. Never mind that most minimum wage earners are adults. Never mind that most Americans favor raising the minimum wage. That wasn't going to stop Rep. Jason Chaffetz from defending the Republicans' skewed priorities in the House of Representatives to host Stephanie Cutter on this Wednesday's Crossfire, or pretending that raising it would keep companies from hiring teenagers."
"Never mind that the minimum wage would be $22.62 per hour today if it had grown at the same rate as the earnings of the one percent. Never mind that most minimum wage earners are adults. Never mind that most Americans favor raising the minimum wage. That wasn't going to stop Rep. Jason Chaffetz from defending the Republicans' skewed priorities in the House of Representatives to host Stephanie Cutter on this Wednesday's Crossfire, or pretending that raising it would keep companies from hiring teenagers."
Georgia School 'Terrorized' After Fox News False 'Christmas' Report
Georgia School 'Terrorized' After Fox News False 'Christmas' Report
"Last month, members of school board in South Dakota said that they received death threats after Fox News falsely reported that they had voted to drop the Pledge of Allegiance at schools."
"Last month, members of school board in South Dakota said that they received death threats after Fox News falsely reported that they had voted to drop the Pledge of Allegiance at schools."
Ohio GOP Resurrects Voter Suppression Efforts | The Nation
Ohio GOP Resurrects Voter Suppression Efforts | The Nation
"But now Ohio Republicans are once again resurrecting efforts to make it harder to vote. Last month, the GOP-controlled Ohio Senate, on a party-line vote, voted to cut early voting by a week, eliminating the “Golden Week” when Ohioans can register and vote on the same day during the early voting period (Senate Bill 238). The legislation was introduced and passed in one week, with almost no time for substantive debate."
"But now Ohio Republicans are once again resurrecting efforts to make it harder to vote. Last month, the GOP-controlled Ohio Senate, on a party-line vote, voted to cut early voting by a week, eliminating the “Golden Week” when Ohioans can register and vote on the same day during the early voting period (Senate Bill 238). The legislation was introduced and passed in one week, with almost no time for substantive debate."
Trickle-Down Economics and Broken Promises
www.americanprogress.org/issues/economy/report/2013/12/04/80381/trickle-down-economics-and-broken-promises/
"Yet empirical economic data show that these misguided policies did not deliver on their promises, as our nation’s economy after the tax increases of 1993 significantly outperformed the periods after tax cuts in the 1980s and 2000s. Investment growth, productivity growth, employment growth, middle-class income growth, national fiscal health, and overall economic growth were weaker or declined under trickle-down policies."
"Yet empirical economic data show that these misguided policies did not deliver on their promises, as our nation’s economy after the tax increases of 1993 significantly outperformed the periods after tax cuts in the 1980s and 2000s. Investment growth, productivity growth, employment growth, middle-class income growth, national fiscal health, and overall economic growth were weaker or declined under trickle-down policies."
Republicans Vote Against Their Own Survival as the Top 14 Child Poverty States Are Red
www.politicususa.com/2013/12/04/republicans-vote-survival-top-14-child-poverty-states-red.html
"The top fourteen states with the highest percentage of children living in dire poverty are deeply-held red states and far exceed the humiliating national child poverty rate of nearly 24%."
"The top fourteen states with the highest percentage of children living in dire poverty are deeply-held red states and far exceed the humiliating national child poverty rate of nearly 24%."
How Wall Street Power Brokers Are Designing the Future of Public Education as a Money-Making Machine | Alternet
How Wall Street Power Brokers Are Designing the Future of Public Education as a Money-Making Machine | Alternet
"Why are Wall Street types investing in local school board elections? Just follow the money."
"Why are Wall Street types investing in local school board elections? Just follow the money."
Elizabeth Warren wants to know what think tanks are owned by Wall Street
www.dailykos.com/story/2013/12/04/1260164/-Elizabeth-Warren-wants-to-know-what-think-tanks-are-owned-by-Wall-Street
"Sen. Elizabeth Warren apparently doesn't give a fig about what the corporatist Third Way thinks about her and her economic populism. But she does care about who is funding the research from think tanks like Third Way that argues against economic populism. So she is demanding some transparency there. She just sent this letter [pdf] to the heads of JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Citigroup, Wells Fargo, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley."
"Sen. Elizabeth Warren apparently doesn't give a fig about what the corporatist Third Way thinks about her and her economic populism. But she does care about who is funding the research from think tanks like Third Way that argues against economic populism. So she is demanding some transparency there. She just sent this letter [pdf] to the heads of JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Citigroup, Wells Fargo, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley."
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
113th Congress Set To Be Least Productive In History; GOP Proud Of Their Do Nothing Record
www.addictinginfo.org/2013/12/04/113th-congress-set-least-productive-history-gop-sees-bragging-point/
"It’s no secret that republicans in the House and Senate view the government as the enemy. We should make no mistakes about it. They are there to prevent the government from functioning, not to help it function better. They don’t want to streamline government functions, they want to do whatever they can to keep the government from functioning at all. The fact that they see the complete failure of the 113th Congress to carry out its duties as bragging points, just proves that they don’t belong in government at all."
"It’s no secret that republicans in the House and Senate view the government as the enemy. We should make no mistakes about it. They are there to prevent the government from functioning, not to help it function better. They don’t want to streamline government functions, they want to do whatever they can to keep the government from functioning at all. The fact that they see the complete failure of the 113th Congress to carry out its duties as bragging points, just proves that they don’t belong in government at all."
Remember All Those Obamacare Horror Stories? Not Looking So Bad Now | Alternet
Remember All Those Obamacare Horror Stories? Not Looking So Bad Now | Alternet
"In the absence of facts, conservative media just made things up to fit their narrative."
"In the absence of facts, conservative media just made things up to fit their narrative."
Insurance Commissioner Compares Pre-Existing Conditions To Car Wrecks: ‘It’s Your Fault’
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2013/12/04/3020831/georgia-insurance-commissioner-pre-existing-fault/
"Georgia Insurance Commissioner Ralph Hudgens (R) has a message for the estimated 57.2 million Americans suffering from diabetes, asthma, cancer, genetic disorders, and other pre-existing medical conditions: it’s your fault."
"Georgia Insurance Commissioner Ralph Hudgens (R) has a message for the estimated 57.2 million Americans suffering from diabetes, asthma, cancer, genetic disorders, and other pre-existing medical conditions: it’s your fault."
California Republicans Create Fake Healthcare Website To Mislead Constituents
www.addictinginfo.org/2013/12/03/california-republicans-create-fake-healthcare-website-mislead-constituents/
"Republicans have tried everything in their power to keep the ACA from taking effect. After more than 40 attempts to repeal the law, a failed Supreme Court challenge and a full blown shut down of the US government, they did not succeed. They tried to sabotage the law in every way possible, up to and including a “Destroy Obamacare” program, which was supposed to bring down the national ACA website.
What’s left for them now, except to create a fake healthcare website? They’ll try whatever they can to try to keep people from getting to the truth and then signing up for the ACA.
Misleading voters, billing taxpayers for right wing propaganda, using every kind of deceptive tactic they can think of… there’s really nothing new here. It’s habitual for the party that has no other options left. They can’t stand on the truth. Voters would never accept GOP policies if they were offered at face value. They can only hope that their low information base doesn’t catch on before the next election.
Since statistics show that more and more Republicans are signing up for the ACA every day, the odds of that happening are getting smaller and smaller."
"Republicans have tried everything in their power to keep the ACA from taking effect. After more than 40 attempts to repeal the law, a failed Supreme Court challenge and a full blown shut down of the US government, they did not succeed. They tried to sabotage the law in every way possible, up to and including a “Destroy Obamacare” program, which was supposed to bring down the national ACA website.
What’s left for them now, except to create a fake healthcare website? They’ll try whatever they can to try to keep people from getting to the truth and then signing up for the ACA.
Misleading voters, billing taxpayers for right wing propaganda, using every kind of deceptive tactic they can think of… there’s really nothing new here. It’s habitual for the party that has no other options left. They can’t stand on the truth. Voters would never accept GOP policies if they were offered at face value. They can only hope that their low information base doesn’t catch on before the next election.
Since statistics show that more and more Republicans are signing up for the ACA every day, the odds of that happening are getting smaller and smaller."
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
Looking for Fraud? Don't Look at Food Stamp Recipients, Look at Wall Street | Common Dreams
Looking for Fraud? Don't Look at Food Stamp Recipients, Look at Wall Street | Common Dreams
"Food stamps keep 47 million people from going hungry, so cuts hurt. Congress should focus on where the real abuse happens"
"Food stamps keep 47 million people from going hungry, so cuts hurt. Congress should focus on where the real abuse happens"
Want to Cut Food Stamp Spending? Raise the Minimum Wage
Want to Cut Food Stamp Spending? Raise the Minimum Wage
"If minimum wage workers receives a raise, and that increase ripples up through the ever-growing low-wage end of our economy, the need for government assistance will decrease and therefore so will the spending on the programs. The right way to cut spending on assistance for Americans is to decrease the need for that assistance, not decrease assistance for those in need."
"If minimum wage workers receives a raise, and that increase ripples up through the ever-growing low-wage end of our economy, the need for government assistance will decrease and therefore so will the spending on the programs. The right way to cut spending on assistance for Americans is to decrease the need for that assistance, not decrease assistance for those in need."
CA Assembly GOP Puts Up Fake California Health Exchange Site
CA Assembly GOP Puts Up Fake California Health Exchange Site
"What we have here are elected officials intentionally trying to make California's health exchange fail, and using taxpayer dollars to misinform taxpayers, using the standard fear and loathing tactics as their linchpin."
"What we have here are elected officials intentionally trying to make California's health exchange fail, and using taxpayer dollars to misinform taxpayers, using the standard fear and loathing tactics as their linchpin."
DonorsTrust—the Right's Dark-Money ATM—Pumps Out Record $96 Million
www.motherjones.com/politics/2013/12/donors-trust-franklin-center-alec-mercatus-center-dark-money
"Wealthy conservatives use DonorsTrust as a surefire way to invest their money, fingerprint-free, with the assurance it will end up in the right hands."
"Wealthy conservatives use DonorsTrust as a surefire way to invest their money, fingerprint-free, with the assurance it will end up in the right hands."
How Fast Food Giants Use Loopholes to Avoid taxes, Pay Execs Giant Pay, and the Workers Peanuts | Alternet
How Fast Food Giants Use Loopholes to Avoid taxes, Pay Execs Giant Pay, and the Workers Peanuts | Alternet
"The fast food industry is notorious for handing out lean paychecks to their burger flippers and fat ones to their CEOs. What’s less well-known is that taxpayers are actually subsidizing fast food incomes at both the bottom — and top — of the industry."
"The fast food industry is notorious for handing out lean paychecks to their burger flippers and fat ones to their CEOs. What’s less well-known is that taxpayers are actually subsidizing fast food incomes at both the bottom — and top — of the industry."
The Fake Obamacare Site That Is Trying To Trick Californians
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2013/12/03/3012281/california-republicans-trick-voters-fake-obamacare-site/
"Despite the GOP’s effort to dissuade Californians from purchasing coverage, however, nearly 80,000 people signed up for health insurance in the state’s new exchange as of late November, with approximately 2,7000 people enrolling daily.
A disclaimer on the site — which is situated next to a link to the Assembly Republican Caucus — notes that “The California State Assembly does not warrant or make any representations as to the quality, content, accuracy, or completeness of the information, text, graphics, links and other items contained on this server or any other server.” Indeed."
"Despite the GOP’s effort to dissuade Californians from purchasing coverage, however, nearly 80,000 people signed up for health insurance in the state’s new exchange as of late November, with approximately 2,7000 people enrolling daily.
A disclaimer on the site — which is situated next to a link to the Assembly Republican Caucus — notes that “The California State Assembly does not warrant or make any representations as to the quality, content, accuracy, or completeness of the information, text, graphics, links and other items contained on this server or any other server.” Indeed."
Oh Hell, 16, 12, 8 — Put Those Worthless Kids to Work!
Oh Hell, 16, 12, 8 — Put Those Worthless Kids to Work!
"Republicans are determined to undo every labor reform we’ve had in this country since sweatshops burned to the ground. And trust me, they don’t mean having their own kids work. They mean your kids."
"Republicans are determined to undo every labor reform we’ve had in this country since sweatshops burned to the ground. And trust me, they don’t mean having their own kids work. They mean your kids."
Judge OK's Detroit Bankruptcy, Puts Public Pensions Under the Axe | Common Dreams
Judge OK's Detroit Bankruptcy, Puts Public Pensions Under the Axe | Common Dreams
"U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Steven Rhodes ruled Tuesday that the city of Detroit is eligible for bankruptcy after a long court battle between city appointed 'emergency manager' Kevyn Orr and union and labor activists who say the decision paves the way for workers' pensions to be cut."
"U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Steven Rhodes ruled Tuesday that the city of Detroit is eligible for bankruptcy after a long court battle between city appointed 'emergency manager' Kevyn Orr and union and labor activists who say the decision paves the way for workers' pensions to be cut."
Republicans Freak Out as Healthcare.gov Gets Nearly a Million Hits on Monday
www.politicususa.com/2013/12/03/republicans-freak-healthcare-gov-million-hits-monday.html
"At this point, the GOP has no idea what to do. For the past three years, they have been in ‘repeal Obamacare’ mode. While they couldn’t be bothered to do any actual policy making or passing bills in the House, they found time to hold repeal votes nearly four dozen times. However, as they head back into session, they do not have another repeal vote on the calender. The fact is, they know they can’t do it anymore. Before, when enrollment had not begun, they could go on their rhetorical exercise of holding repeal votes that would never get through the Senate or past the White House. Now, they realize that hundred of thousands of people have already obtained health insurance, and millions more will once they come back in January."
"At this point, the GOP has no idea what to do. For the past three years, they have been in ‘repeal Obamacare’ mode. While they couldn’t be bothered to do any actual policy making or passing bills in the House, they found time to hold repeal votes nearly four dozen times. However, as they head back into session, they do not have another repeal vote on the calender. The fact is, they know they can’t do it anymore. Before, when enrollment had not begun, they could go on their rhetorical exercise of holding repeal votes that would never get through the Senate or past the White House. Now, they realize that hundred of thousands of people have already obtained health insurance, and millions more will once they come back in January."
PERRspectives: GOP: Founding Fathers Created Defect-Free Constitution, Ended Scourge of Slavery
PERRspectives: GOP: Founding Fathers Created Defect-Free Constitution, Ended Scourge of Slavery
"The Republican National Committee's proclamation honoringRosa Park's "role in ending racism" is continuing to receive the scorn and derision it richly deserves. As it turns out, the GOP's attempt to literally whitewash American history is hardly its first."
"The Republican National Committee's proclamation honoringRosa Park's "role in ending racism" is continuing to receive the scorn and derision it richly deserves. As it turns out, the GOP's attempt to literally whitewash American history is hardly its first."
Monday, December 2, 2013
ALEC’s Extreme Legislative Agenda for 2014
ALEC’s Extreme Legislative Agenda for 2014
"On ALEC's agenda for 2014 are the following priorities and bills (which will become official ALEC "models" once passed by the task forces -- with corporate lobbyists voting as equals alongside state legislators -- and approved by the board of directors)"
"On ALEC's agenda for 2014 are the following priorities and bills (which will become official ALEC "models" once passed by the task forces -- with corporate lobbyists voting as equals alongside state legislators -- and approved by the board of directors)"
Will women revolt in 2014 or let others control their interests?
www.dailykos.com/story/2013/12/01/1259065/-Will-women-revolt-in-2014-or-let-others-control-their-interests
"The reality is that women make up a larger portion of the voting electorate. The rights of women are under attack for financial, patriarchal and ideological reasons. Will women really allow a failed website rollout to have them elect those that would re-impose restrictions they have fought for over many decades? Are women really ready to entrust their freedoms to those intent on relegating them back to male dominion?
My wife and the cancer survivor did not have a real choice in losing something dear to them. All women that vote, however, have the right and ability to vote their economic interests, their bodily control interests and their equal access interests. Will women follow the path of many oppressed groups and either vote against their interests or not participate in the election process at all? Or will women revolt in 2014 to rid Washington of all those opposing their interests? The results of the 2014 election will affect women’s rights for decades to come."
"The reality is that women make up a larger portion of the voting electorate. The rights of women are under attack for financial, patriarchal and ideological reasons. Will women really allow a failed website rollout to have them elect those that would re-impose restrictions they have fought for over many decades? Are women really ready to entrust their freedoms to those intent on relegating them back to male dominion?
My wife and the cancer survivor did not have a real choice in losing something dear to them. All women that vote, however, have the right and ability to vote their economic interests, their bodily control interests and their equal access interests. Will women follow the path of many oppressed groups and either vote against their interests or not participate in the election process at all? Or will women revolt in 2014 to rid Washington of all those opposing their interests? The results of the 2014 election will affect women’s rights for decades to come."
Where the Minimum Wage Would Be If It Kept Pace With the Earnings of the 1% | Alternet
Where the Minimum Wage Would Be If It Kept Pace With the Earnings of the 1% | Alternet
"Worker productivity has more than doubled since 1968, and if the minimum wage had kept pace with productivity gains it would have been $21.72 last year."
"Worker productivity has more than doubled since 1968, and if the minimum wage had kept pace with productivity gains it would have been $21.72 last year."
Conservative Claims About Minimum Wage Put To The Test After Town Increases It To $15
www.addictinginfo.org/2013/11/27/seatac-minimum-wage-raised-15/
"The residents of SeaTac, WA — a little hamlet of 27,667 people — are under attack by the Koch Brothers and affiliated right-wing groups, after the results of their last election. The reason why? The town dared to raise its minimum wage to $15 per hour."
"The residents of SeaTac, WA — a little hamlet of 27,667 people — are under attack by the Koch Brothers and affiliated right-wing groups, after the results of their last election. The reason why? The town dared to raise its minimum wage to $15 per hour."
Kevin Madden: Minimum Wage Hike Denies 'Opportunity' for 'Bottom Rung of the Economic Ladder'
Kevin Madden: Minimum Wage Hike Denies 'Opportunity' for 'Bottom Rung of the Economic Ladder'
"CNN contributor Kevin Madden, a former advisor and spokesperson for Mitt Romney (R), said on Sunday that Congress should not raise the minimum wage because it would deny people the "opportunity to grab that bottom rung of the economic ladder"."
"CNN contributor Kevin Madden, a former advisor and spokesperson for Mitt Romney (R), said on Sunday that Congress should not raise the minimum wage because it would deny people the "opportunity to grab that bottom rung of the economic ladder"."
The RNC Claims Rosa Parks Ended Racism, Demonstrating What’s Wrong with the GOP
www.politicususa.com/2013/12/01/rnc-claimes-rosa-parks-ended-racism-demonstrating-wrong-gop.html
"Racism isn’t dead. The Republican Party, abusers of the Southern Strategy, do their part to keep it alive with their rhetoric and their policies."
"Racism isn’t dead. The Republican Party, abusers of the Southern Strategy, do their part to keep it alive with their rhetoric and their policies."
GOP Credits Rosa Parks For ‘Ending Racism’
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2013/12/01/3007041/gop-credits-rosa-parks-ending-racism/
"Racism, of course, hasn’t ended and may have actually increased since the election of President Obama in 2008."
"Racism, of course, hasn’t ended and may have actually increased since the election of President Obama in 2008."
Rick Santorum Insists That He Has The Right To Force His Religious Views Upon Women (VIDEO)
www.addictinginfo.org/2013/12/01/rick-santorum-insists-that-he-has-the-right-to-force-his-religious-views-upon-women-video/
"In the wake of his massive failure as a movie-maker, Rick Santorum has returned to the political realm to argue that religious rights trump women’s health."
"In the wake of his massive failure as a movie-maker, Rick Santorum has returned to the political realm to argue that religious rights trump women’s health."
Sunday, December 1, 2013
Santorum Complains That 'Sicker, Older' People are Getting Insurance
Santorum Complains That 'Sicker, Older' People are Getting Insurance
"I don't know who Rick Santorum is trying to appeal to with this fearmongering on CNN's State of the Union this Saturday, but it seems to me he's taking aim straight at the GOP's base with his complaints about people over sixty now being able to get health insurance due to the Affordable Care Act."
"I don't know who Rick Santorum is trying to appeal to with this fearmongering on CNN's State of the Union this Saturday, but it seems to me he's taking aim straight at the GOP's base with his complaints about people over sixty now being able to get health insurance due to the Affordable Care Act."
10 Outrages and Crazy Statements by Right-Wingers This Week: Pope Provokes Free-Market Freakout | Alternet
10 Outrages and Crazy Statements by Right-Wingers This Week: Pope Provokes Free-Market Freakout | Alternet
"Before the Thanksgiving floats, there was the usual parade of right-wing nuts this week, many of whom became apoplectic after Pope Francis’ much-publicized Joy of the Gospel document, which critiqued unfettered capitalism and insinuated that thoroughly discredited trickle-down economics is naïve and just plain wrong."
"Before the Thanksgiving floats, there was the usual parade of right-wing nuts this week, many of whom became apoplectic after Pope Francis’ much-publicized Joy of the Gospel document, which critiqued unfettered capitalism and insinuated that thoroughly discredited trickle-down economics is naïve and just plain wrong."
How GOP Oligarchs and the Christian Right Are Hiding Behind the 1st Amendment to Ram Through Their Political Agenda | Alternet
How GOP Oligarchs and the Christian Right Are Hiding Behind the 1st Amendment to Ram Through Their Political Agenda | Alternet
"The Tea Party is turning the Constitution’s most fundamental protections into a refuge for scoundrels and billionaires."
"The Tea Party is turning the Constitution’s most fundamental protections into a refuge for scoundrels and billionaires."
Saturday, November 30, 2013
Corporations Should Pay a Living Wage or Face the Death Penalty | Alternet
Corporations Should Pay a Living Wage or Face the Death Penalty | Alternet
"If businesses can't pay a living wage, they should get the corporate death penalty.
Doing business in America – and pretty much every other developed country in the world – is a privilege, not a right."
"If businesses can't pay a living wage, they should get the corporate death penalty.
Doing business in America – and pretty much every other developed country in the world – is a privilege, not a right."
Corporate Elites Are Witnessing a Growing Wave of Resistance to the ‘Walmartization’ of Our Economy | Alternet
Corporate Elites Are Witnessing a Growing Wave of Resistance to the ‘Walmartization’ of Our Economy | Alternet
"The struggle of working Americans took center stage as Black Friday protests covered the country. The struggle for wages that do not leave families impoverished is one that affects us all and highlights the unfair economy created by a class war waged by the wealthy for decades. The ‘Walmartization’ of the US economy has created a downward spiral in wages and destroyed small businesses and communities while heightening the wealth divide that is at the root of so many problems. The war on working people is a war on all but the wealthiest Americans."
"The struggle of working Americans took center stage as Black Friday protests covered the country. The struggle for wages that do not leave families impoverished is one that affects us all and highlights the unfair economy created by a class war waged by the wealthy for decades. The ‘Walmartization’ of the US economy has created a downward spiral in wages and destroyed small businesses and communities while heightening the wealth divide that is at the root of so many problems. The war on working people is a war on all but the wealthiest Americans."
Thursday, November 28, 2013
Food Stamps Cut Just in Time for Thanksgiving | Common Dreams
Food Stamps Cut Just in Time for Thanksgiving | Common Dreams
"Corporations can’t cut wages and say to working people, “There are plenty of hungry people just waiting to take your job, so shut up” if there aren’t plenty of hungry people just waiting to take any old nasty, humiliating, low-wage job. So as long as the wealthy few and their giant corporations are able to buy our government we can expect more high unemployment and cuts to programs that help feed people."
"Corporations can’t cut wages and say to working people, “There are plenty of hungry people just waiting to take your job, so shut up” if there aren’t plenty of hungry people just waiting to take any old nasty, humiliating, low-wage job. So as long as the wealthy few and their giant corporations are able to buy our government we can expect more high unemployment and cuts to programs that help feed people."
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
This Was One of The Least Productive Years Ever for Congress
This Was One of The Least Productive Years Ever for Congress
"Congress is on track to have one of the least productive years in modern history, having passed only 52 bills since January, just 44 which are considered “substantive”—far below the average of 70 in the years 1990-2012."
"Congress is on track to have one of the least productive years in modern history, having passed only 52 bills since January, just 44 which are considered “substantive”—far below the average of 70 in the years 1990-2012."
The Tea Party gave birth to this: Christian American Patriots Militia calling for Obama’s assassination
www.freakoutnation.com/2013/11/25/the-tea-party-gave-birth-to-this-christian-american-patriots-militia-calling-for-obamas-assassination/
"The Secret Service is aware of the threats. The page has been reported numerous times."
"The Secret Service is aware of the threats. The page has been reported numerous times."
Former Pennsylvania GOP official charged with 19 counts, including drugging, raping a woman multiple times
www.freakoutnation.com/2013/11/26/former-pennsylvania-gop-official-charged-with-19-counts-including-drugging-raping-a-woman-multiple-times/
"The former chairman of the Montgomery County Republican Committee in Pennsylvania who resigned last week after being accused of sexual assault on an employee from his law firm, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with 19 counts, including rape and drug charges."
"The former chairman of the Montgomery County Republican Committee in Pennsylvania who resigned last week after being accused of sexual assault on an employee from his law firm, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with 19 counts, including rape and drug charges."
Jim Garrow and Erik Rush Obama Should Be Stood Against Wall and Shot
www.politicususa.com/2013/11/27/jim-garrow-erik-rush-obama-stood-wall-shot.html
"Republicans have become obsessed not with simply impeaching or imprisoning President Obama, but with killing him."
"Republicans have become obsessed not with simply impeaching or imprisoning President Obama, but with killing him."
Macy’s Sent a Letter to Rick Perry Urging Him to Veto Equal Pay Bill — Which He Did
www.forwardprogressives.com/macys-sent-a-letter-to-rick-perry-urging-him-to-veto-equal-pay-bill-which-he-did/
"It’s just another example of big business protecting their right to discriminate, and a Republican siding with big business over the American worker."
"It’s just another example of big business protecting their right to discriminate, and a Republican siding with big business over the American worker."
Three of the Biggest Lies Republicans Tell About Themselves
www.forwardprogressives.com/three-of-the-biggest-lies-republicans-tell-about-themselves/
"But one area where Republicans excel at is propaganda. They’re really good at it. They’ve successfully convinced millions of people to be absolute hypocrites, vote against their own interests and believe that giving rich people more money benefits the rest of us."
"But one area where Republicans excel at is propaganda. They’re really good at it. They’ve successfully convinced millions of people to be absolute hypocrites, vote against their own interests and believe that giving rich people more money benefits the rest of us."
The good Obamacare news bubbles up
www.dailykos.com/story/2013/11/26/1258553/-The-good-Obamacare-news-bubbles-nbsp-up?detail=facebook
"These stories are vital reminders that there was a really good reason for insurance reform, for Obamacare. They're also the backdrop to all those polls that show the American people reject the idea of scrapping the law and going back to the way it was. Meanwhile, Republicans are still staking 2014 and 2016 on repeal, which is pretty much all they got at this point."
"These stories are vital reminders that there was a really good reason for insurance reform, for Obamacare. They're also the backdrop to all those polls that show the American people reject the idea of scrapping the law and going back to the way it was. Meanwhile, Republicans are still staking 2014 and 2016 on repeal, which is pretty much all they got at this point."
Pope Francis Attacks 'Idolatry of Money,' Says Inequality 'Kills' | Alternet
Pope Francis Attacks 'Idolatry of Money,' Says Inequality 'Kills' | Alternet
"Pope Francis called on politicians to guarantee “dignified work, education and healthcare” to their citizens."
"Pope Francis called on politicians to guarantee “dignified work, education and healthcare” to their citizens."
Did Karl Rove’s super PAC commit perjury?
Did Karl Rove’s super PAC commit perjury?
"The return, signed under penalty of perjury, specified that the grants would be used for social welfare purposes, “and not for political expenditures, consistent with the organization’s tax-exempt mission.” But that’s not what happened."
"The return, signed under penalty of perjury, specified that the grants would be used for social welfare purposes, “and not for political expenditures, consistent with the organization’s tax-exempt mission.” But that’s not what happened."
Heart of Darkness: Criminal Investigation of WI Recall $
Heart of Darkness: Criminal Investigation of WI Recall $
"The controversy immediately kicked off a struggle for control of the Wisconsin Senate. Between 2011 and 2012 Wisconsin voters across the state knocked on doors, circulated recall petitions, and put an unprecedented number of state officials up for recall. Thirteen state senators eventually faced recall elections. Close to one million people signed recall petitions for the Governor and Lt. Governor, and even before an election was certified, outside money began to saturate the state. $137.5 million is estimated to have been spent on the recalls in total, the vast majority from out-of-state players.
The source of much of that spending remains unknown. Millions were spent by "dark money" nonprofits -- most of them organized under 501(c)(4) of the tax code -- that allow deep pocketed donors to hide their identity."
"The controversy immediately kicked off a struggle for control of the Wisconsin Senate. Between 2011 and 2012 Wisconsin voters across the state knocked on doors, circulated recall petitions, and put an unprecedented number of state officials up for recall. Thirteen state senators eventually faced recall elections. Close to one million people signed recall petitions for the Governor and Lt. Governor, and even before an election was certified, outside money began to saturate the state. $137.5 million is estimated to have been spent on the recalls in total, the vast majority from out-of-state players.
The source of much of that spending remains unknown. Millions were spent by "dark money" nonprofits -- most of them organized under 501(c)(4) of the tax code -- that allow deep pocketed donors to hide their identity."
The 'Ticking Time Bomb' That Could Cause Such Rapid Global Warming We'd Be Unable to Prevent Extinction | Alternet
The 'Ticking Time Bomb' That Could Cause Such Rapid Global Warming We'd Be Unable to Prevent Extinction | Alternet
"Our planet has experienced five major extinctions over the past billion or so years -- do we really want to launch an irreversible 6th?"
"Our planet has experienced five major extinctions over the past billion or so years -- do we really want to launch an irreversible 6th?"
Bernie Sanders: To Defeat Oligarchy, I Would Run for President | Common Dreams
Bernie Sanders: To Defeat Oligarchy, I Would Run for President | Common Dreams
"Senator Bernie Sanders, for the second time in as many weeks, is indicating serious contemplation for a presidential run in 2016 if none of the potential Democratic candidates show the proper urgency when it comes to addressing a key set of issues that he thinks now face the country and the world.
Stressing the overarching crisis of out-of-control income and wealth inequality coupled with the planetary emergencies of global warming and climate change, Sanders' message has been that unless these problems are put at the forefront of the domestic policy agenda he will feel compelled to run."
"Senator Bernie Sanders, for the second time in as many weeks, is indicating serious contemplation for a presidential run in 2016 if none of the potential Democratic candidates show the proper urgency when it comes to addressing a key set of issues that he thinks now face the country and the world.
Stressing the overarching crisis of out-of-control income and wealth inequality coupled with the planetary emergencies of global warming and climate change, Sanders' message has been that unless these problems are put at the forefront of the domestic policy agenda he will feel compelled to run."
6 Outrageously Greedy Companies That Make Scrooge Look Like a Softie | Alternet
6 Outrageously Greedy Companies That Make Scrooge Look Like a Softie | Alternet
"From paying starvation wages to abandoning victims of factory disasters, there is no action too heartless for some of our best-known companies."
"From paying starvation wages to abandoning victims of factory disasters, there is no action too heartless for some of our best-known companies."
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Obama Blasts Republicans For Wasting 40+ Votes On Repealing The ACA Instead of Creating Jobs
www.politicususa.com/2013/11/26/obama-blasts-republicans-wasting-40-votes-repealing-aca-creating-jobs.html
"The president was correct that Republicans could be voting on his jobs plans or infrastructure spending, but they choose to continue to waste time on meaningless votes to repeal the ACA. The president made an important point when he said that Republicans are obsessed with taking health insurance away from 40 million people.
It would be nice if the mainstream media would stop obsessing about a website that is performing much better, and start asking Republicans why they want tens of millions of Americans to not have access to affordable healthcare."
"The president was correct that Republicans could be voting on his jobs plans or infrastructure spending, but they choose to continue to waste time on meaningless votes to repeal the ACA. The president made an important point when he said that Republicans are obsessed with taking health insurance away from 40 million people.
It would be nice if the mainstream media would stop obsessing about a website that is performing much better, and start asking Republicans why they want tens of millions of Americans to not have access to affordable healthcare."
You Probably Didn’t Hear About The Most Important Health Care News This Week
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2013/11/22/2983481/media-historic-slowdown-health-spending/
"U.S. health care spending since 2010 has increased by just 1.3 percent — the smallest cost growth over a three-year period in American history — while prices in the health care sector rose by 50-year lows, thanks in part to structural changes made by the Affordable Care Act."
"U.S. health care spending since 2010 has increased by just 1.3 percent — the smallest cost growth over a three-year period in American history — while prices in the health care sector rose by 50-year lows, thanks in part to structural changes made by the Affordable Care Act."
The Obamacare news in the states is pretty good, and Politico hates that
www.dailykos.com/story/2013/11/26/1258505/-The-Obamacare-news-in-the-states-is-pretty-good-and-Politico-hates-that
"For example, in Kentucky: "Kentucky's program, Kynect, has enrolled 56,422 Kentuckians as of Nov. 22 [...] [A]n additional 22,000 have entered personal information through the website and have found they are eligible for subsidized insurance but have yet to pick a plan."
From Indiana: "There are exciting changes ahead for a local health center that for years has been providing health services to the poor in the Wabash Valley. A recent infusion of federal dollars will allow The Wabash Valley Health Center, commonly known as St. Ann Medical and Dental Services, to continue to provide health care, expand its services and reach more people in the Valley"."
"For example, in Kentucky: "Kentucky's program, Kynect, has enrolled 56,422 Kentuckians as of Nov. 22 [...] [A]n additional 22,000 have entered personal information through the website and have found they are eligible for subsidized insurance but have yet to pick a plan."
From Indiana: "There are exciting changes ahead for a local health center that for years has been providing health services to the poor in the Wabash Valley. A recent infusion of federal dollars will allow The Wabash Valley Health Center, commonly known as St. Ann Medical and Dental Services, to continue to provide health care, expand its services and reach more people in the Valley"."
Republicans continue efforts to suppress the vote in places where it will do them the most good
www.dailykos.com/story/2013/11/26/1258522/-Republicans-continue-efforts-to-suppress-the-vote-in-places-where-it-will-do-them-the-most-good
"Shaming the GOP for its determination to shave a few points off Democratic election turnout obviously hasn't had an impact. Unblushable, the party is still at it. Instead of doing all they can to encourage every eligible person to vote, Republicans have been relentlessly imposing new restrictions to make it harder"
"Shaming the GOP for its determination to shave a few points off Democratic election turnout obviously hasn't had an impact. Unblushable, the party is still at it. Instead of doing all they can to encourage every eligible person to vote, Republicans have been relentlessly imposing new restrictions to make it harder"
The Next State-Level Fights Over Abortion Are Already Brewing | Common Dreams
The Next State-Level Fights Over Abortion Are Already Brewing | Common Dreams
"Here are four other states to keep an eye on, since they represent some of the next battlegrounds for reproductive rights"
"Here are four other states to keep an eye on, since they represent some of the next battlegrounds for reproductive rights"
Some Florida Election Supervisors Stunned By New Voter Restrictions
www.thinkprogress.org/justice/2013/11/26/2995801/florida-election-supervisors-stunned-voter-restrictions/
"Florida Gov. Rick Scott’s (R) chief election official issued new rules Monday night that could hamper absentee voting, just months before Floridians in the state’s 13th Congressional district take part in a special election to replace the late Rep. C.W. Bill Young (R). The seat was held by Republicans for decades, but is now considered a tossup."
"Florida Gov. Rick Scott’s (R) chief election official issued new rules Monday night that could hamper absentee voting, just months before Floridians in the state’s 13th Congressional district take part in a special election to replace the late Rep. C.W. Bill Young (R). The seat was held by Republicans for decades, but is now considered a tossup."
Right-Wing Militia Leader Says Constitution Gives Him The Right To Assassinate President Obama (IMAGE)
www.addictinginfo.org/2013/11/24/right-wing-assassinate-obama/
"These threats justify why the Department of Homeland Security and a West Point think-tank classified right-wing extremists as a dangerous threat to the country. Ever since Obama took office, the right has gone completely crazy with hate. They have zero ideas and are incapable of winning elections by making a reasonable case to voters. They can’t even bring themselves to compromise on anything. So they threaten the nation with guns and violent revolution in order to scare Americans and get their way."
"These threats justify why the Department of Homeland Security and a West Point think-tank classified right-wing extremists as a dangerous threat to the country. Ever since Obama took office, the right has gone completely crazy with hate. They have zero ideas and are incapable of winning elections by making a reasonable case to voters. They can’t even bring themselves to compromise on anything. So they threaten the nation with guns and violent revolution in order to scare Americans and get their way."
Darrell Issa's Traveling Obamacare Hearings Exclude ACA Supporters
Darrell Issa's Traveling Obamacare Hearings Exclude ACA Supporters
"In his traveling road show of “hearings” on the Affordable Care Act rollout, Darrell Issa has hand-picked the people testifying, and has excluded those who want to speak in favor of the ACA."
"In his traveling road show of “hearings” on the Affordable Care Act rollout, Darrell Issa has hand-picked the people testifying, and has excluded those who want to speak in favor of the ACA."
Wealthy Libertarians Are Driving Poverty, Unemployment, and Anti-Government Discontent
www.politicususa.com/2013/11/24/wealthy-libertarians-driving-poverty-unemployment-anti-government-discontent.html
"There is a reason the Koch brothers and their cohort ALEC are funneling millions to anti-government teabaggers and religious right anti-choice activists, and it is part of their plan to stir up opposition to equal rights, religious freedom, and particularly the federal government and social programs. Inciting discontent and division among the population, coupled with their job-killing austerity economics, stagnating wages, and domestic spending cuts is the recipe for the growth of fascism and at some point the people will look to a champion who will promise a path to economic prosperity if they are given authority to transform America according to the Koch brothers’ libertarian vision of no federal government, no regulations, no taxation, a return to Christian moral values, and free market capitalism that is code for corporate owned-and-operated government."
"There is a reason the Koch brothers and their cohort ALEC are funneling millions to anti-government teabaggers and religious right anti-choice activists, and it is part of their plan to stir up opposition to equal rights, religious freedom, and particularly the federal government and social programs. Inciting discontent and division among the population, coupled with their job-killing austerity economics, stagnating wages, and domestic spending cuts is the recipe for the growth of fascism and at some point the people will look to a champion who will promise a path to economic prosperity if they are given authority to transform America according to the Koch brothers’ libertarian vision of no federal government, no regulations, no taxation, a return to Christian moral values, and free market capitalism that is code for corporate owned-and-operated government."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)